Organizational Description
Women For A Healthy Environment (WHE) has been nominated for demonstrating an unwavering commitment to fostering a more equitable and healthier future for the residents of Philadelphia, particularly childcare in environmental justice neighborhoods. Through a range of initiatives and programs, WHE has shown exceptional leadership in addressing environmental risks, promoting community health, and advancing social equity.
WHE has impacted the Philadelphia community through its multifaceted approach to promoting environmental awareness and community empowerment: WHE engages directly with childcare providers in various environmental justice neighborhoods, equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to safeguard the health and well-being of children, families, and staff. They offer education on a wide range of environmental risks, including radon, lead, plastics, chemicals, and other potential hazards.
This approach not only raises awareness but also empowers childcare providers to create safer environments for the next generation. WHE actively assists childcare providers in achieving further accreditation for their facilities. Through their Healthy Childcare Champion Program, providers receive valuable training and support. Upon program completion, providers join a network within the organization but also earns them accreditation points.
WHE is also conducting research in environmental justice neighborhoods. Their groundbreaking studies, such as the investigation of shade’s impact on children’s playtime and indoor air quality monitoring of PM 2.5, shed light on significant issues affecting urban Philadelphia. These projects contribute to a deeper understanding of environmental disparities.
WHE contributes to mitigation by providing free resources and products to childcare facilities. This includes shade structures, no smoking signs, no idling signs, and EPA safer choice cleaning products. By removing barriers to safer environments, they promote equity and protect the most vulnerable members of our community.
WHE holds webinars and educational training sessions for childcare providers and staff. Topics range from air quality indices (AQI) to healthy summer tips and pesticide awareness. These sessions empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions about the well-being of their children and communities.
WHE prides itself on community collaboration. They partner with various city organizations, including the EPA, Philadelphia Water Department, and Philadelphia Department of Public Health, and in the process of organizing their a September community event. Their upcoming event is the “Back to School: Health and Wellness Fair”.